infoTECH Feature

HID Global's iCLASS SE Platform Makes School More Safe, Secure

Growing security threats have increased the demand for multi-functional smart card solutions that educational institutions can use to improve security, versatility and efficiency.

Acknowledging this, the Academy of Art University in San Francisco recently selected HID Global’s iCLASS SE access control platform, for the complete safety and security of the campus buildings that house expensive equipment and high-value student work product.

“Meeting our twin needs for both security and scalability required that we upgrade to an access control system based on an open architecture that could support multiple card technologies and future enhancements,” said Mike Petricca, campus safety director with the Academy of Art University, in a press statement.

By using the iCLASS SE platform, Academy of Art University has been able to create the nation’s first completely locked-down campus environment, with all access controlled through a single, centralized system.

The university’s safety and security has now increased and theft has also been reduced to a great extent. Usage of metal keys has also been significantly reduced.

HID Global’s iCLASS SE platform has enabled students, faculty and staff to do more than just open doors with their ID cards, including making purchases using the university’s debit program for meals and cashless vending, and gaining access to athletic events.

Officials said that the platform has delivered new capabilities along with an improved campus experience. Furthermore, it has also offered the ability to expand its access control infrastructure to support future growth and improvements.

“Academy of Art University has demonstrated the same spirit of innovation with its access control infrastructure as it has with its unique approach to state-of-the-art curriculum, facilities and resources,” said Anthony Ball, senior vice president, Identity and Access Management with HID Global. “The iCLASS SE platform has given the university an access control foundation with which it can embrace change and support future improvements that will benefit faculty and staff, as well as students and their parents.”